An exercise I particularly like to use in workshops is the six-word memoir. This is based on Smithmag.net and their popular six-word collections. For more information click here.
The idea is rumored to have started with Ernest Hemingway. He was challenged to write a six-word story and he wrote:
Baby shoes for sale, never worn.
I think the six-word memoir is a great way to get your creative writing juices flowing. Having trouble starting your life story? Why not write a six-word memoir and use it as the title for your book. Alternatively, turn it into the introduction to your story. These mini memoirs can be intriguing and often call out for a fuller explanation.
To give you some inspiration, here are a few of the six-word gems from the participants in my recent Dawson Creek workshop.
- Mom’s revenge, I am my mom!
- Who said it couldn’t be done?
- I’m aching, broken but I’m alive!
- Work hard. Live well. Enjoy life.
- Waiting to see what is next.
- Daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandma, wow!
- Have motorcycle, will travel. I’m free!
- Family is my Love and Joy.
- Love it all. Not enough time.
- Years happen. Still learning. Constantly amazed!
- Investing in others now. Rewards coming.
Here’s mine: Learned much. Much more to learn. What’s your six-word memoir? Jot it down in the comment box below.
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Born on Christmas Day. Still celebrating.
@Mary Ihla. Thank you for submitting your 6-word memoir.
Once again, I just want to commend you on your always interesting and informative blog. I know how much time and effort goes into keeping these things fresh and timely. And you do such a stellar job —- it’s an inspiration to the rest of us who let our blogs languish!
@Amanda Kuhnert. Thank you very much for your encouraging words. I hope you can get your languishing blog up and running. I’d like to suggest you try your hand at the “mini memoir” contest. It’s fun. Submit your 6-word memoir and enter for the chance to win the prize!
I’m still trying to get started.
@Rachel. Thanks for your “mini memoir” submission. Good luck!
Hi, Dan: Here’s my 6-word memoir:
Closed quotes becoming open parens.
Best, Martha
@Martha Jewett. Thanks for your mini memoir. Unless my math is “wonky”, your 6-word memoir is only 5 words long. So you can add another word!
Okay I’m going to give this a try. Here are my six words
Began innocently. Proceeded naively. Surprisingly resilient.
@Gwyn Teatro. Thanks for participating Gwyn. There’s a whole book in those 6 words!
We have a winner! Mary Ihla’ six-word memoir,
“Born on Christmas Day. Still celebrating.” wins the prize. Congratulations, Mary!